News by State

UAE researchers review systematic Ebola risks

Researchers from the University of East Anglia in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) recently reviewed risks of spreading filoviruses.

The study, “Risk Factors for Community Transmissions of Filovirus Infections (Ebola and Marburg): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis,” has been published in the International Journal of Epidemiology. In the study, researchers reviewed 31 cases of filovirus infections between 1967 and now through clinical notes and interviews with survivors and close contacts.

"This research strengthens the evidence base for dealing with this deadly disease,” Paul Hunter, lead researcher and professor at the Norwich Medical School, said. “Importantly, we provide a more nuanced understanding of the risks -- and particularly the risks associated with indirect contact. Our research shows that Ebola is not very infectious in the general community and that it does require close contact with a known case.”

Researchers state that the risk for infection is greatest in caregivers at late stages of the disease. They also report that casual contact within the community and even in the home is unlikely to spread the disease. According to Hunter, expedient hospital diagnosis is crucial in curbing the spread of the virus until a vaccine is widely available.